You are here

Vector stack hybrids clear regulatory hurdle

Monsanto Company announced Monday that USDA has granted deregulated status for its MON88017 - a second-generation product combining its rootworm and Roundup Ready Corn 2 trait technologies in a single event; and MON88017 stacked with YieldGard Corn Borer. The company says the regulatory clearances represent a major step toward the future commercialization of these products.

MON88017 is a "vector stack" of Monsanto's Rootworm and Roundup Ready Corn 2 trait offerings. This means that the rootworm-control gene is combined with the glyphosate-tolerance gene before the genetic package is inserted into the plant.

Previously, corn hybrids containing the corn rootworm protection and glyphosate tolerance traits have been developed by crossing two inbreds containing the individual traits using traditional breeding techniques. MON88017 was developed using a transformation vector that contained both of the genes in one genetic package. This approach reduces breeding costs and increases the speed at which the germplasm can be provided to corn growers, Monsanto says.

Monsanto is seeking the necessary regulatory clearances for both new hybrids on the U.S. state level as well as approvals in countries that are major importers of U.S. corn. The company has not announced timing for the commercial launch.

Monsanto Company announced Monday that USDA has granted deregulated status for its MON88017 - a second-generation product combining its rootworm and Roundup Ready Corn 2 trait technologies in a single event; and MON88017 stacked with YieldGard Corn Borer. The company says the regulatory clearances represent a major step toward the future commercialization of these products.